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5 Day Murchison Falls and Budongo Chimp Trekking Safari

Overview

Our 5 Day Murchison Falls and Budongo Chimp Trekking Safari is perfect for those who have the time to fully explore the wonders of Murchison Falls, including game viewing, boat cruises and chimp trekking. Murchison Falls, located in northern Uganda, is the largest conservation area in the country, covering 3,840 square kilometers. The park is traversed by the mighty River Nile and is one of the most exciting national parks to visit during your Uganda safari. Murchison Falls National Park boasts a variety of vegetation types, from swamps and the tropical rainforests of Budongo to savannah woodlands and grasslands. This diverse landscape is home to a wide array of wildlife, including chimpanzees in Budongo Forest, lions, hyenas, buffaloes, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, the rare shoebill stork, small primates and numerous other savannah, marine and forest species. Visitors to Murchison Falls National Park should not miss the spectacular game drives and boat cruises to the base of the falls and the delta. A thorough exploration of the park typically requires 2 to 4 days.

Tour Summary for this 5 Day Murchison Falls and Budongo Chimp Trekking Safari

Day 01: Drive to Murchison Falls National Park via Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary and the top of the falls.
Day 02: Morning game drive and afternoon boat cruise to the base of the falls.
Day 03: Morning delta cruise and afternoon game drive.
Day 04: Drive to Budongo Forest for afternoon chimp trekking.
Day 05: Drive back to Kampala/Entebbe International Airport.

Things To Consider

Accommodation is included.
Small group safari: Maximum of 6 people per group.
The tour can depart on any day.
The tour can be customized.
Solo travelers can join this tour.
Age limit: 15 years and above.

TRIP ITINERARY

Tour Plan

Day 1

Pickup from the Hotel and Transfer to Murchison Falls National Park

Your guide will meet you at your hotel for a brief introduction to your 5-day safari before embarking on a 5-6 hour drive to Murchison Falls National Park. En route, you will visit Zziwa Rhino Sanctuary to track both white and black rhinos, species that were poached to extinction in the 1970s but are now being reintroduced through conservation efforts. After your rhino tracking experience, you'll drive to Masindi for lunch, then continue to Murchison Falls National Park, visiting the top of the falls before heading to your overnight accommodation.

Accommodation: Bakers Lodge (Upmarket), Murchison River Lodge (Mid-Range), Red Chilli (Budget)
Meals: All meals included

Day 2

Morning Game Drive and Boat Cruise

After breakfast, you'll cross the ferry to the northern part of Murchison Falls National Park, known as Paraa, for an early morning game drive. This area is rich in wildlife, including lions, buffaloes, elephants, various antelope species, leopards, and more. The delta region is also teeming with aquatic life such as hippos, crocodiles, and the rare shoebill stork. Wildlife sightings depend on nature, so luck plays a part in what you'll see on the day. After the game drive, you'll return to your lodge for lunch before heading out on an afternoon boat cruise to the base of the falls, considered the highlight of any visit to Murchison Falls. On the cruise, expect to see buffaloes, elephants, crocodiles, and many water birds as you journey upstream to the base of the falls, where the Nile squeezes through a narrow gorge before plunging downwards.

Accommodation: Bakers Lodge (Upmarket), Murchison River Lodge (Mid-Range), Red Chilli (Budget)
Meals: All meals included

Day 3

Delta Cruise and Afternoon Game Drive in Paraa

After breakfast, you'll embark on a boat cruise to the delta area of Murchison Falls National Park. Though less frequented by tourists, this cruise offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, with chances to see buffaloes, elephants, crocodiles, hippos, and the rare shoebill stork. You'll also observe the Nile slowing as it deposits sediments before entering Lake Albert. After the cruise, return to the lodge for lunch, then prepare for an evening game drive to spot any animals you might have missed earlier.

Accommodation: Bakers Lodge (Upmarket), Murchison River Lodge (Mid-Range), Red Chilli (Budget)
Meals: All meals included

Day 4

Chimp Trekking in Budongo

After breakfast, you'll drive approximately 1-2 hours south to Budongo Forest for an overnight stay. In Budongo Forest, you'll embark on a chimpanzee trekking adventure, either in the morning or afternoon, depending on your preference and the availability of permits. Before the trek, a ranger guide will brief you on the dos and don'ts of chimpanzee trekking. The walk through the forest will also expose you to other primates, plants, and shrubs. After your chimp trek, you'll return to the lodge for overnight.

Accommodation: Bakers Lodge (Upmarket), Murchison River Lodge (Mid-Range), Budongo Eco Lodge, Red Chilli (Budget)
Meals: All meals included

Day 5

Departure

After breakfast, you'll drive back to Kampala or Entebbe International Airport for your departure flight.

INCLUDES & EXCLUDES

Includes

Airport transfers on the first and last day
Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle
Services of an English-speaking driver/guide
Fuel for the entire trip
Accommodation and meal plan as per the itinerary
All Park entrance fees
Drinking water while in the vehicle

Excludes

Pre and post tour accommodation in Entebbe or Kampala
International airfares
Uganda Visa (USD50.00 which can be paid on arrival at the Airport

TOUR MAP

GENERAL FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the safari package include?

Our safari packages are designed to cover the key services needed for a comfortable and hassle-free trip. Depending on the itinerary, this may include accommodation, transportation, park entrance fees, professional guide services, meals and scheduled activities. A detailed list of inclusions will always be provided before you confirm your booking.

How do I book a safari with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Booking your safari is simple. Contact us with your preferred travel dates, number of travelers and the safari package you are interested in. Once availability is confirmed, we will send you a quotation and payment details. Your booking is secured once the required deposit has been received.

Can I customize my safari itinerary?

Yes. Every traveler has different interests, budgets and travel styles. Whether you would like to upgrade your accommodation, spend additional nights in a destination or add activities such as chimpanzee tracking, cultural visits or wildlife safaris, we can tailor the itinerary to suit your needs.

Are gorilla trekking permits included in the safari price?

Most of our gorilla trekking safaris include the cost of the gorilla permit. The permit is one of the most important parts of your trip and will be clearly listed in your quotation. If a permit is not included, we will explain this before you make your booking.

How far in advance should I book gorilla trekking permits?

We recommend booking gorilla permits at least 3 to 6 months in advance, especially if you plan to travel during the peak seasons from June to September or December to February. Permits are limited and can sell out quickly, particularly in popular trekking sectors.

What is the best time for gorilla trekking in Uganda?

Gorilla trekking is available throughout the year in Uganda. Many travelers prefer the dry seasons from June to September and December to February because the trails are generally easier to navigate. However, the rainy seasons can also be rewarding, with fewer visitors and lush green scenery in the forest.

How difficult is gorilla trekking?

The difficulty of gorilla trekking varies depending on the location of the gorilla family being visited. Some treks may take less than an hour while others can last several hours through steep and forested terrain. A moderate level of fitness is recommended, but people of different ages and fitness levels successfully complete gorilla treks every day.

What should I pack for gorilla trekking?

For gorilla trekking, we recommend bringing sturdy hiking boots, long trousers, a long-sleeved shirt, a lightweight rain jacket, gardening gloves, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, drinking water and a camera. Comfortable outdoor clothing is highly recommended as conditions in the forest can change quickly.

Do I need a visa to visit Uganda?

Most international travelers require a visa to enter Uganda. Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, and our team will be happy to provide guidance on the application process and entry requirements before your trip.

What type of accommodation can I expect during my safari?

We offer carefully selected budget, mid-range and luxury accommodation options across Uganda, Rwanda, Kenya and Tanzania. Our lodges and camps are chosen for their comfort, quality service, excellent locations and easy access to major safari attractions.

Are airport transfers included in the safari package?

Airport transfers are included in many of our safari packages. If they are not included, we can arrange private transfers for you. We will clearly explain all transportation arrangements before your arrival.

Is travel insurance required for a safari?

While travel insurance is not always mandatory, it is strongly recommended for all travelers. Comprehensive coverage can help protect you against unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, travel delays and lost luggage.

What is your cancellation policy?

Cancellation terms vary depending on the safari package, accommodation providers and permits involved. If you need to cancel your trip, please contact us as soon as possible and we will explain the options available based on our booking terms and conditions.

Can children join a safari in Uganda?

Many of our wildlife safaris are suitable for families traveling with children. However, some activities have age restrictions. For example, participants must be at least 15 years old to take part in gorilla trekking in Uganda and Rwanda.

Can solo travelers book a safari?

Yes. We welcome solo travelers and can arrange both private and group safari experiences. Whether you are planning a gorilla trekking tour, wildlife safari or multi-country adventure, we can create an itinerary that matches your travel preferences.

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